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Meadows Field to allow Uber service; county names new airport director as SB 661 seeks dedicated aeronautics funding
Summary
Kern County announced Uber service to Meadows Field starting July 1, the appointment of Bill Lemanc as director of Kern County Airports effective July 12, and local leaders highlighted Senate Bill 661 (Aero Act) as a potential funding source for airport improvements.
Kern County said travelers can call an Uber to and from Meadows Field Airport starting July 1 as part of broader efforts to expand transportation options for residents and visitors.
The county also announced the appointment of Bill Lemanc as the new director of Kern County Airports. Lemanc was appointed by the Kern County Board of Supervisors and is scheduled to begin the position on July 12, according to the county segment. The segment said Lemanc has more than 30 years of aviation experience and most recently served as business development director at Newport News Williamsburg Airport in Virginia.
At a press event at Meadows Field, county and city leaders and airport representatives also voiced support for Senate Bill 661, the “Aero Act,” authored by state Senator Melissa Hurtado. The segment said SB 661 would redirect sales tax on jet fuel currently flowing into the state general fund into an aeronautics account to provide a consistent funding source for California airports. Senator Melissa Hurtado, speaking at the event, said the bill aims to support Central Valley airports and local economic opportunities: “I know this Central Valley very well, and I know that we're a resilient community. And that's what SB 661 is all about.”
Why it matters: Local leaders say the combination of improved ground transportation, new airport leadership and potential state funding could help Meadows Field expand service and support regional economic development. The segment did not provide details on the county’s role in SB 661 or any local financial commitment if the bill passes.
The segment did not include vote details or dates for the Board of Supervisors’ appointment vote, nor specific projected funding amounts from SB 661 if enacted.
